U.S. patent application number 14/539471 was filed with the patent office on 2015-05-21 for compositions and methods for coating dry pet food kibble.
The applicant listed for this patent is Nestec SA. Invention is credited to Maquel Deckard, Peggy Haukap, Jean Luz Rayner, Michael G. Rayner.
Application Number | 20150140163 14/539471 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51900926 |
Filed Date | 2015-05-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150140163 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Deckard; Maquel ; et
al. |
May 21, 2015 |
COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR COATING DRY PET FOOD KIBBLE
Abstract
Compositions and methods are provided for evenly coating or
glazing dry pet food kibbles for improved palatability without loss
of crunchiness of the dry kibbles over an extended time period. The
coating compositions comprise water and at least one of a gum or a
modified starch. The coating composition can comprise an additional
ingredient such as one or more of a flavor, a color, an emulsified
or particulate meat, an emulsified or particulate fruit or
vegetable, an antioxidant, a vitamin, a mineral, a non-replicating
microorganism, a fiber or a prebiotic. In an embodiment, the
coating composition can include dextrose and/or glycine. After
mixing and retorting, the coating composition can be a viscous
paste with a viscosity of 2500 to 4000 centipoises, preferably 3000
to 3500 centipoises, as measured at room temperature.
Inventors: |
Deckard; Maquel; (St. Louis,
MO) ; Rayner; Jean Luz; (St. Joseph, MO) ;
Rayner; Michael G.; (St. Joseph, MO) ; Haukap;
Peggy; (Alhambra, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Nestec SA |
Vevey |
|
CH |
|
|
Family ID: |
51900926 |
Appl. No.: |
14/539471 |
Filed: |
November 12, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61905482 |
Nov 18, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
426/2 ; 426/103;
426/302; 426/519; 426/661; 426/72 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A23K 20/174 20160501;
A23K 40/20 20160501; A23K 40/25 20160501; A23K 10/20 20160501; A23K
20/179 20160501; A23K 50/48 20160501; A23K 20/163 20160501; A23K
50/42 20160501; A23K 10/30 20160501; A23K 10/16 20160501; A23K
20/20 20160501; A23K 40/30 20160501 |
Class at
Publication: |
426/2 ; 426/661;
426/72; 426/519; 426/302; 426/103 |
International
Class: |
A23K 1/00 20060101
A23K001/00; A23K 1/18 20060101 A23K001/18; A23K 1/16 20060101
A23K001/16 |
Claims
1. A coating composition that is a wet food product comprising
water and an ingredient selected from the group consisting of a
modified starch, a gum, and a combination thereof, and the
composition has a viscosity of 2500 to 4000 centipoises as measured
at room temperature.
2. The coating composition of claim 1 further comprising an
additional ingredient selected from the group consisting of a
flavor, a color, an antioxidant, a vitamin, a mineral, a
non-replicating microorganism, a fiber, a prebiotic, and
combinations thereof.
3. The coating composition of claim 1 further comprising an
additional ingredient selected from the group consisting of an
emulsified or particulate meat, an emulsified or particulate fruit,
an emulsified or particulate vegetable, and combinations
thereof.
4. The coating composition of claim 1 wherein the viscosity is 3000
to 3500 centipoises as measured at room temperature.
5. A method of making a coating composition comprising: mixing
water and an ingredient selected from the group consisting of a
modified starch, a gum, and a combination thereof to form a
mixture; heating the mixture; and pouring the heated mixture into a
container that is then retorted, the retorted mixture has a
viscosity of 2500 to 4000 centipoises as measured at room
temperature.
6. The method of claim 5 wherein the mixture is heated to a
temperature of at least 180.degree. F. before pouring into the
container.
7. The method of claim 5 wherein the heated mixture is homogenized
before pouring into the container.
8. The method of claim 7 wherein at least one of a particulate
fruit or a particulate vegetable is added to the mixture after
homogenizing.
9. The method of claim 5 wherein a particulate meat is added to the
mixture before the heating.
10. A method for preparing a pet food comprising adding a wet food
product to a dry food product, the wet food product comprising
water and an ingredient selected from the group consisting of a
modified starch, a gum, and a combination thereof and having a
viscosity of 2500 to 4000 centipoises as measured at room
temperature.
11. The method of claim 10 wherein 10% to 15% of the wet food
product is added to 85% to 90% dry food product, in reference to a
final weight of the pet food.
12. The method of claim 10 wherein the dry food product comprises
individual pieces, and the wet food product is added to the dry
food product to coat each of the individual pieces of the dry food
product with the wet food product.
13. The method of claim 12 wherein the individual pieces of the dry
food product are coated with the wet food product without the
individual pieces sticking together.
14. The method of claim 10 further comprising administering to a
companion animal the pet food formed by addition of the wet food
product to the dry food product.
15. The method of claim 10 wherein the dry food product maintains
about the same maximum compressive force without breaking for at
least 2.5 hours after addition of the wet food product.
16. A pet food comprising: a dry food product; and a coating
composition on the dry food product, the coating composition is a
wet food product comprising water and an ingredient selected from
the group consisting of a modified starch, a gum, and a combination
thereof, and the coating composition has a viscosity of 2500 to
4000 centipoises as measured at room temperature.
17. The pet food of claim 16 wherein the dry food product has a
form of kibbles.
18. The pet food of claim 16 wherein an amount of the coating
composition is 10% to 15% and an amount of the dry food product is
85% to 90%, in reference to a total weight of the pet food.
19. A kit comprising a wet food product stored separately from a
dry food product, the wet food product comprising water and an
ingredient selected from the group consisting of a modified starch,
a gum, and a combination thereof and having a viscosity of 2500 to
4000 centipoises as measured at room temperature.
20. A pet feeding system comprising a plurality of pet food coating
compositions, each of the coating compositions is a wet food
product comprising water and an ingredient selected from the group
consisting of a modified starch, a gum, and a combination thereof
and having a viscosity of 2500 to 4000 centipoises as measured at
room temperature, and a first subset of the coating compositions
has a different texture relative to a second subset of the coating
compositions.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to pet foods. More
specifically, the present disclosure relates to compositions and
methods for coating or glazing dry pet food kibbles.
[0002] Currently there are wet pet food products that have the form
of loaf or the form of chunk in gravy in the market. However, these
products are intended for an entire meal occasion and cannot evenly
coat dry pet food. The loaf product is too hard to mix with dry pet
food, and the chunk in gravy product soaks the dry pet food.
Another type of pet food on the market, the SMART PUP product, is
considered a treat and can be served as a frozen puck or fed to the
pet straight out of the container.
[0003] Furthermore, few products currently on the market are
formulated and advertised as just an enhancement to dry pet food.
Of the main pet food categories, namely dry, semi-moist, and wet,
dry pet foods are perceived as the least palatable. Pet owners can
add wet pet food to dry food pet food at the time of feeding. Such
treatment improves the palatability of the dry pet food and is
pleasing to the pet owner and/or the pet. However, the benefit is
lost very quickly, typically within minutes, because the wet pet
food is readily absorbed by the dry pet food causing the dry pet
food to lose crunchiness and become soggy, messy and
unappealing.
SUMMARY
[0004] The present disclosure provides compositions and methods for
evenly coating or glazing dry pet food kibbles for improved
palatability without loss of crunchiness of the dry kibbles over an
extended time period. The coating compositions comprise water and
at least one of a gum or a modified starch. After mixing and
retorting, the coating composition can be a viscous paste with a
viscosity of 2500 to 4000 centipoises, preferably 3000 to 3500
centipoises, as measured at room temperature.
[0005] Accordingly, in a general embodiment, the present disclosure
provides a coating composition that is a wet food product
comprising water and an ingredient selected from the group
consisting of a modified starch, a gum, and a combination thereof.
The composition has a viscosity of 2500 to 4000 centipoises as
measured at room temperature.
[0006] In an embodiment, the coating composition further comprises
an additional ingredient selected from the group consisting of a
flavor, a color, an antioxidant, a vitamin, a mineral, a
non-replicating microorganism, a fiber, a prebiotic, and
combinations thereof.
[0007] In an embodiment, the coating composition further comprises
an additional ingredient selected from the group consisting of an
emulsified or particulate meat, an emulsified or particulate fruit,
an emulsified or particulate vegetable, and combinations
thereof.
[0008] In an embodiment, the coating composition further comprises
at least one of dextrose or glycine.
[0009] In an embodiment, the viscosity is 3000 to 3500 centipoises
as measured at room temperature.
[0010] In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a
method of making a coating composition. The method comprises:
mixing water and an ingredient selected from the group consisting
of a modified starch, a gum, and a combination thereof to form a
mixture; heating the mixture; and pouring the heated mixture into a
container that is then retorted, the retorted mixture has a
viscosity of 2500 to 4000 centipoises as measured at room
temperature.
[0011] In an embodiment, the mixture is heated to a temperature of
at least 180.degree. F. before pouring into the container.
[0012] In an embodiment, the heated mixture is homogenized before
pouring into the container. At least one of a particulate fruit or
a particulate vegetable can be added to the mixture after
homogenizing.
[0013] In an embodiment, a particulate meat is added to the mixture
before the heating.
[0014] In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a
method for preparing a pet food. The method comprises adding a wet
food product to a dry food product. The wet food product comprises
water and an ingredient selected from the group consisting of a
modified starch, a gum, and a combination thereof and having a
viscosity of 2500 to 4000 centipoises as measured at room
temperature.
[0015] In an embodiment, 10% to 15% of the wet food product is
added to 85% to 90% dry food product, in reference to a final
weight of the pet food.
[0016] In an embodiment, the dry food product comprises individual
pieces, and the wet food product is added to the dry food product
to coat each of the individual pieces of the dry food product with
the wet food product.
[0017] In an embodiment, the individual pieces of the dry food
product are coated with the wet food product without the individual
pieces sticking together.
[0018] In an embodiment, the method further comprises administering
to a companion animal the pet food formed by addition of the wet
food product to the dry food product.
[0019] In an embodiment, the dry food product maintains about the
same maximum compressive force without breaking for at least 2.5
hours after addition of the wet food product.
[0020] In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a pet
food comprising a dry food product; and a coating composition on
the dry food product. The coating composition is a wet food product
comprising water and an ingredient selected from the group
consisting of a modified starch, a gum, and a combination thereof.
The coating composition has a viscosity of 2500 to 4000 centipoises
as measured at room temperature.
[0021] In an embodiment, the dry food product has a form of
kibbles.
[0022] In an embodiment, an amount of the coating composition is
10% to 15% and an amount of the dry food product is 85% to 90%, in
reference to a total weight of the pet food.
[0023] In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a kit
comprising a wet food product stored separately from a dry food
product. The wet food product comprises water and an ingredient
selected from the group consisting of a modified starch, a gum, and
a combination thereof and has a viscosity of 2500 to 4000
centipoises as measured at room temperature.
[0024] In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a pet
feeding system comprising a plurality of pet food coating
compositions. Each of the coating compositions is a wet food
product comprising water and an ingredient selected from the group
consisting of a modified starch, a gum, and a combination thereof
and having a viscosity of 2500 to 4000 centipoises as measured at
room temperature. A first subset of the coating compositions has a
different texture relative to a second subset of the coating
compositions.
[0025] An advantage of the present disclosure is to enable a
consumer to evenly coat dry pet food with a wet food product.
[0026] Another advantage of the present disclosure is to enable a
consumer to coat dry pet food with a wet food product having a
different texture than the dry food product.
[0027] Still another advantage of the present disclosure is to
enable a consumer to coat dry pet food with a wet food product
without affecting the crunchiness of the dry pet food.
[0028] Yet another advantage of the present disclosure is to enable
a consumer to coat dry pet food with a wet food product while
delivering a nutritional benefit.
[0029] An additional advantage of the present disclosure is to
enable a consumer to evenly coat dry pet food kibbles without
clumping, for example with the kibbles remaining as individual
pieces that do not stick together.
[0030] Another advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a
wet coating for dry pet food kibbles that is not runny or watery in
texture.
[0031] Still another advantage of the present disclosure is to
provide a wet coating for dry pet food kibbles that has a nappe and
will cover a spoon.
[0032] Yet another advantage of the present disclosure is to coat a
dry pet food kibble such that the kibble does not get soggy or lose
crunchiness for at least 2.5 hours.
[0033] Still another advantage of the present disclosure is to coat
a dry pet food kibble with a composition that can be fortified with
antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, non-replicating microorganisms,
prebiotics and/or fiber.
[0034] Yet another advantage of the present disclosure is to
improve the palatability and/or acceptance of dry pet food relative
to the dry pet food alone.
[0035] An additional advantage of the present disclosure is to
provide different coatings having a texture that is smooth, fine
particulate, chunky or a combination thereof to enable a customer
to choose a texture that best fits the needs and preferences of a
pet.
[0036] Another advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a
wet pet food that can be combined with dry pet food and maintain
palatability, texture, and appealing appearance of the resultant
combination for longer times relative to mixtures of known wet pet
foods with dry pet food.
[0037] Additional features and advantages are described in, and
will be apparent from, the following Detailed Description and the
Figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0038] FIG. 1 is a photograph of dry kibbles coated with an
embodiment of the wet food composition provided by the present
disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0039] The term "pet" means any animal which could benefit from or
enjoy the compositions provided by the present disclosure. The pet
can be an avian, bovine, canine, equine, feline, hicrine, lupine,
murine, ovine, or porcine animal. The pet can be any suitable
animal, and the present disclosure is not limited to a specific pet
animal. The term "companion animal" means a dog or a cat.
[0040] The term "pet food" means any composition intended to be
consumed by a pet.
[0041] "Wet food" is pet food having a moisture content from about
50% to about 90%, preferably from about 70% to about 90%. "Dry
food" is pet food having a moisture content less than about 20%,
preferably less than about 15%, more preferably less than about
10%. "Kibbles" are pellets of dry pet food. "Semi-moist food" is
pet food having a moisture content from about 20% to about 50%,
preferably from about 25% to about 35%.
[0042] The term "single package" means that the components of a kit
are physically associated in or with one or more containers and
considered a unit for manufacture, distribution, sale, or use.
Containers include, but are not limited to, bags, boxes, cartons,
bottles, packages of any type or design or material, over-wrap,
shrink-wrap, affixed components (e.g., stapled, adhered, or the
like), or combinations thereof. A single package may be containers
of individual components physically associated such that they are
considered a unit for manufacture, distribution, sale, or use.
[0043] The term "virtual package" means that the components of a
kit are associated by directions on one or more physical or virtual
kit components instructing the user how to obtain the other
components, e.g., a bag or other container containing one component
and directions instructing the user to go to a website, contact a
recorded message or a fax-back service, view a visual message, or
contact an instructor to obtain instructions on how to use the kit
or safety or technical information about one or more components of
a kit.
[0044] All percentages expressed herein are by weight of the total
weight of the composition unless expressed otherwise. As used
herein and in the appended claims, the singular form of a word
includes the plural, and vice versa, unless the context clearly
dictates otherwise. Thus, the references "a," "an" and "the" are
generally inclusive of the plurals of the respective terms. For
example, reference to "a measuring device" or "a method" includes a
plurality of such "measuring devices" or "methods." Similarly, the
words "comprise," "comprises," and "comprising" are to be
interpreted inclusively rather than exclusively. Likewise, the
terms "include," "including" and "or" should all be construed to be
inclusive, unless such a construction is clearly prohibited from
the context. However, the embodiments provided by the present
disclosure may lack any element that is not specifically disclosed
herein. Thus, a disclosure of an embodiment defined using the term
"comprising" also is a disclosure of embodiments "consisting
essentially of" and "consisting of" the disclosed components. Where
used herein, the term "example," particularly when followed by a
listing of terms, is merely exemplary and illustrative, and should
not be deemed to be exclusive or comprehensive.
[0045] The present disclosure provides compositions and methods for
evenly coating or glazing dry pet food kibbles. The coating
compositions comprise water and at least one of a gum or a modified
starch. After mixing and retorting, the coating composition can be
a viscous paste with a viscosity of 2500 to 4000 centipoises,
preferably 3000 to 3500 centipoises, as measured at room
temperature. The coating composition can comprise an additional
ingredient such as one or more of a flavor, a color, an emulsified
or particulate meat, an emulsified or particulate fruit, an
emulsified or particulate vegetable, an antioxidant, a vitamin, a
mineral, a non-replicating microorganism, a fiber or a prebiotic.
In an embodiment, the coating composition can include dextrose
and/or glycine. Depending on the size of particulates included in
the coating composition, the coating composition can have a smooth
texture, a fine particulate texture, a chunky texture or a
combination thereof. In an embodiment, about 10% to 15% of the
coating composition is mixed with about 85% to about 90% dry pet
food kibbles until each kibble is completely coated.
[0046] Examples of suitable gums are gellan gum, xanthan gum,
locust bean gum, pectin, carrageenan (e.g., kappa, iota and/or
lambda), cellulose gum, gum Arabic and the like, and combinations
thereof. Modified starch is prepared by treating starch physically,
enzymatically or chemically, changing the properties of the starch.
For example, starches may be modified to increase their stability
against excessive heat, acid, shear; to change their texture; to
decrease or increase the viscosity; to lengthen or shorten
gelatinization time; or to increase the visco-stability.
Non-limiting examples of suitable starch sources include wheat,
barley, rye, rice, tapioca, potato and corn.
[0047] Non-limiting examples of suitable flavors include yeast,
tallow, rendered animal meals (e.g., poultry, beef, lamb, pork),
flavor extracts or blends (e.g., grilled beef), spices, and the
like. Suitable spices include parsley, oregano, sage, rosemary,
basil, thyme, chives and the like. Non-limiting examples of
suitable colors include FD&C colors, such as blue no. 1, blue
no. 2, green no. 3, red no. 3, red no. 40, yellow no. 5, yellow no.
6, and the like; natural colors, such as caramel coloring, annatto,
chlorophyllin, cochineal, betanin, turmeric, saffron, paprika,
lycopene, elderberry juice, pandan, butterfly pea and the like;
titanium dioxide; and any suitable food colorant known to the
skilled artisan.
[0048] Non-limiting examples of suitable meats for use as
emulsified or particulate meat include poultry, beef, pork, lamb
and fish, especially those types of meats suitable for pets. Any of
the meats and meat by-products may be used, including meats such as
whole-carcass beef and mutton; lean pork trim; beef shanks; veal;
beef and pork cheek meat; and meat by-products such as lips, tripe,
hearts, tongues, mechanically deboned beef, chicken or fish, beef
and pork liver, lungs, kidneys, and the like. In an embodiment, the
meat is a combination of different types of meats. The coating
composition is not limited to a specific meat or combination of
meats, and any meat known to the skilled artisan for making a food
composition can be used.
[0049] Non-limiting examples of suitable vegetables for use as
emulsified or particulate vegetables include potatoes, squash,
zucchini, spinach, radishes, asparagus, tomatoes, cabbage, peas,
carrots, spinach, corn, green beans, lima beans, broccoli, brussel
sprouts, cauliflower, celery, cucumbers, turnips, yams, and
combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of suitable fruits for
use as emulsified or particulate fruits include apple, orange,
pear, peach, strawberry, banana, cherry, pineapple, pumpkin, kiwi,
grape, blueberry, raspberry, mango, guava, cranberry, blackberry or
combinations thereof. The coating composition is not limited to a
specific emulsified or particulate fruit or vegetable or
combination thereof, and any fruit or vegetable known to the
skilled artisan for making a food composition can be used.
[0050] Non-limiting examples of suitable vitamins include vitamin
A, any of the B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, and
vitamin K, including various salts, esters, or other derivatives of
the foregoing. Non-limiting examples of suitable minerals include
calcium, phosphorous, potassium, sodium, iron, chloride, boron,
copper, zinc, magnesium, manganese, iodine, selenium, and the like.
Non-limiting examples of suitable antioxidants include BHA/BHT,
vitamin E (tocopherols), and the like.
[0051] Non-limiting examples of suitable fibers include digestible
or indigestible, soluble or insoluble, fermentable or
non-fermentable fibers. Preferred fibers are from plant sources
such as marine plants but microbial sources of fiber may also be
used. A variety of soluble or insoluble fibers may be utilized.
[0052] Non-limiting examples of suitable prebiotics include
fructo-oligosaccharides, gluco-oligosaccharides,
galacto-oligosaccharides, isomalto-oligosaccharides,
xylo-oligosaccharides, soybean oligosaccharides, lactosucrose,
lactulose, and isomaltulose. In an embodiment, the prebiotic is
chicory root, chicory root extract, inulin, or combinations
thereof. Generally, prebiotics are administered in amounts
sufficient to positively stimulate the healthy microflora in the
gut and cause these "good" bacteria to reproduce. Typical amounts
are from about one to about 10 grams per serving or from about 5%
to about 40% of the recommended daily dietary fiber for an
animal.
[0053] Non-replicating micro-organisms include probiotic bacteria
that are inactivated, dead, non-viable and/or present as fragments
such as DNA, metabolites, cytoplasmic compounds, and/or cell wall
materials. Non-limiting examples of suitable micro-organisms
include Bifidobacteria, Lactobacilli, Propionibacteria,
Streptococci, Lactococci, Enterococci, Escherichia and combinations
thereof, for example one or more of Bifidobacterium longum,
Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium animalis, Bifidobacterium
breve, Bifidobacterium infantis, Bifidobacterium adolescentis,
Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus
paracasei, Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus reuteri,
Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus johnsonii, Lactobacillus
plantarum, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus lactis,
Lactobacillus helveticus, Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactococcus
lactis, Lactococcus diacetylactis, Lactococcus cremoris,
Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus
delbrueckii, and Escherichia coli.
[0054] Selection of the amounts of each additional ingredient is
known to skilled artisans. Specific amounts for each additional
ingredient will depend on a variety of factors such as the
ingredient included in the coating composition; the species of
animal; the animal's age, body weight, general health, sex, and
diet; the animal's consumption rate; the purpose for which the pet
food is administered to the animal; and the like. Therefore, the
identity and amounts of the additional ingredients may vary widely
and may deviate from the preferred embodiments described
herein.
[0055] The present disclosure also provides methods for making
coating compositions for application to dry pet food. For a coating
with a smooth texture, at least a portion of the ingredients may be
used in the form of a powder. For a coating with a particulate
texture, the corresponding ingredients, such as the meat, the fruit
and/or the vegetable, may be ground to form the particulates. A
blender can be used in one or more stages to obtain a homogenous
mixture.
[0056] At least a portion of the water, at least one of a gum or a
modified starch, and any additional ingredient can mixed together
to form a slurry. In an embodiment, these ingredients are mixed
together at ambient temperature, namely about 70.degree. F. For
ingredients in a larger form such that a coating with a chunky
texture can be achieved, a higher temperature, such as about
95.degree. F., can be used to mix the ingredients together. The
slurry may be combined with any remaining water and heated, for
example to a temperature of at least 180.degree. F., such as at
least 200.degree. F. For a coating composition with a smooth or
particulate texture, emulsification can then be performed. A
portion of the ingredients can be added after any emulsification;
for example, particulate fruits and/or particulate vegetables can
be added to the emulsified mixture. The resultant wet pet food
product can be filled into containers that are sealed and retorted,
for example by heat treatment at a temperature of 250 to
270.degree. F. for 10 to 60 minutes. Then the containers can be
cooled, for example to ambient temperature.
[0057] Non limiting examples of suitable containers are retortable
flexible pouches, glass jars, or retortable rigid plastic
containers.
[0058] The present disclosure also provides methods for coating dry
pet food. The methods comprise adding to a dry pet food any of the
coating compositions disclosed herein or a coating composition made
by any of the methods disclosed herein. In an embodiment, about 10%
to 15% of the coating composition is mixed with about 85% to about
90% dry pet food kibbles, for example until each kibble is
completely coated. The resultant food product can be administered
to a pet, such as a companion animal. Preferably, the food product
consists of the wet food product and the dry food product such that
additional components are not added. The coating composition and
the dry pet food can be provided in a single package that separates
the two compositions such that the consumer can mix the coating
composition onto the dry pet food after purchasing the package. In
an embodiment, the coating composition and the dry pet food can be
provided in a virtual package.
EXAMPLES
[0059] By way of example and not limitation, the following
non-limiting examples are illustrative of various embodiments
provided by the present disclosure.
Example 1
[0060] 100 lbs. of a coating composition was made according to the
formula shown in Table 1 and by the process that follows.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 INGREDIENTS lbs. Modified Starch
(cross-linked) 4.0 Dextrose 0.3 Glycine 0.7 Sodium Chloride 0.85
Peanut Butter 0.2 Color (caramel) 0.15 Water (ambient-70.degree.
F.) 20.0 Water (205.degree. F.) 73.8 TOTAL 100.0
[0061] The dry ingredients and the peanut butter were measured and
combined in a Cherry-Burrell stainless steel mixing tank. 20 lbs.
of water at ambient temperature (70.degree. F.) was added and
mixing continued for 2 minutes to make a slurry.
[0062] Separately, 73.8 lbs. of tap water was placed in a steam
jacketed stainless steel tank fitted with a Lightening Mixer and
heated to 205.degree. F. The slurry was then added to the heated
water and mixed for 3 minutes to form a smooth and viscous but
flowable mixture. This mixture was then filled into 425 mL metal
cans, hermetically sealed, and retorted at 252.degree. F. for 25
minutes then cooled to ambient temperature (about 70.degree.
F.).
[0063] The viscosity of the cooled product was measured with a
Brookfield Viscometer Model RVDT V-IT Serial #D 16006 and spindle
#5 at 30 rpm. The lid of the can was removed and the spindle was
inserted into the product to depth indicated by the manufacturer's
mark. The measured viscosity was 3230 centipoise.
Example 2
[0064] One hundred (100) pounds of a fine particulate beef and
carrot coating product was made with ingredients in the proportions
shown in Table 2 and by the process that follows.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 INGREDIENTS lbs. Beef & Beef by-Products
32.0 Chicken & Chicken By-Products 8.0 Modified Starch
(cross-linked) 2.5 Vitamin Premix 0.01 Mineral Premix 0.06 Color
(caramel) 0.25 Carrot (dehydrated/ground) 2.0 Water 55.18 TOTAL
100.0
[0065] The beef and chicken ingredients were ground through a plate
with 3/8 inch holes on a Weiler grinder. Amounts of each were
weighed as shown in Table 2 and added to a Reitz ribbon blender.
With continuous mixing, all the other ingredients in Table 2,
except the carrots, were added. The mixture was cooked while being
blended to a temperature of 180.degree. F. The blend was then
emulsified through a Karl Schnell emulsion mill through 10 and 8 mm
plates.
[0066] The ground (100% through US 14 mesh) dehydrated carrot was
added to the emulsified mixture. The moisture of the mixture was
82.83%. This mixture was then filled into 425 mL metal cans,
hermetically sealed, and retorted at 252.degree. F. for 25 minutes
then cooled to ambient temperature (about 70.degree. F.). The
viscosity of the cooled product was measured as described in
Example 1 and was 3450 centipoise.
Example 3
[0067] One hundred (100) pounds of a fine particulate chicken and
pumpkin coating product was made with ingredients in the
proportions shown in Table 3 and by the process that follows.
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 INGREDIENTS lbs. Beef & Beef by-Products
8.0 Chicken & Chicken By-Products 32.0 Modified Starch
(cross-linked) 2.5 Vitamin Premix 0.01 Mineral Premix 0.06 Color
(caramel) 0.25 Pumpkin (dehydrated/ground) 2.0 Water 55.18 TOTAL
100.0
[0068] The chicken and beef ingredients were ground through a plate
with 3/8 inch holes on a Weiler grinder. Amounts of each were
weighed as shown in Table 3 and added to a Reitz ribbon blender.
With continuous mixing, all the other ingredients in Table 3,
except the pumpkin, were added. The mixture was cooked while being
blended to a temperature of 180.degree. F. The blend was then
emulsified through a Karl Schnell emulsion mill through 10 and 8 mm
plates.
[0069] The ground (100% through US 14 mesh) dehydrated pumpkin was
added to the emulsified mixture. The moisture of the mixture was
82.3%. This mixture was then filled into 425 mL metal cans,
hermetically sealed, and retorted at 252.degree. F. for 25 minutes
then cooled to ambient temperature (about 70.degree. F.). The
viscosity of the cooled product was measured as described in
Example 1 and was 3325 centipoise.
Example 4
[0070] One hundred (100) pounds of a fine particulate chicken and
apple coating product was made with ingredients in the proportions
shown in Table 4 and by the process that follows.
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 INGREDIENTS lbs. Beef & Beef by-Products
8.0 Chicken & Chicken By-Products 32.0 Modified Starch
(cross-linked) 2.5 Vitamin Premix 0.01 Mineral Premix 0.06 Color
(caramel) 0.25 Apple (dehydrated/pulverized) 2.0 Water 55.18 TOTAL
100.0
[0071] The chicken and beef ingredients were ground through a plate
with 3/8 inch holes on a Weiler grinder. Amounts of each were
weighed as shown in Table 4 and added to a Reitz ribbon blender.
With continuous mixing, all the other ingredients in Table 4,
except the apple, were added. The mixture was cooked while being
blended to a temperature of 180.degree. F. The blend was then
emulsified through a Karl Schnell emulsion mill through 10 and 8 mm
plates.
[0072] The pulverized (100% through US 14 mesh) dehydrated apple
was added to the emulsified mixture. The moisture of the mixture
was 81.9%. This mixture was then filled into 425 mL metal cans,
hermetically sealed, and retorted at 252.degree. F. for 25 minutes
then cooled to ambient temperature (about 70.degree. F.). The
viscosity of the cooled product was measured as described in
Example 1 and was 3375 centipoise.
Example 5
[0073] One hundred (100) pounds of a fine particulate salmon and
sweet potato coating product was made with ingredients in the
proportions shown in Table 5 and by the process that follows.
TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 INGREDIENTS lbs. Meat & Meat by-Products
10.5 Chicken & Chicken By-Products 5.25 Frozen Salmon 26.25
Modified Starch (cross-linked) 2.6 Vitamin Premix 0.01 Mineral
Premix 0.06 Color (Red) 0.05 Titanium Dioxide 0.3 Sweet Potato (1/4
inch cubes) 1.66 Water 53.32 TOTAL 100.0
[0074] The frozen salmon, chicken and meat ingredients were ground
through a plate with 3/8 inch holes on a Weiler grinder. Amounts of
each were weighed as shown in Table 5 and added to a Reitz ribbon
blender. With continuous mixing, all the other ingredients in Table
5 were added. The mixture was cooked while being blended to a
temperature of 180.degree. F. The blend was then emulsified through
a Karl Schnell emulsion mill through 10 and 8 mm plates. The
moisture of the mixture was 81.9%.
[0075] This mixture was then filled into 425 mL metal cans,
hermetically sealed, and retorted at 252.degree. F. for 25 minutes
then cooled to ambient temperature (about 70.degree. F.). The
viscosity of the cooled product was measured as described in
Example 1 was 3295 centipoise.
Example 6
[0076] One hundred (100) pounds of a chunky carrot coating product
was made with ingredients in the proportions shown in Table 6 and
by the process that follows.
TABLE-US-00006 TABLE 6 INGREDIENTS lbs. Xanthan Gum 1.0 Carrot
Granule (1/8 inch) 3.0 Apple Powder 5.0 Water 91.0 TOTAL 100.0
[0077] 91 lbs. of water was heated to 95.degree. F. in a jacketed
stainless steel tank then transferred to a Breddo Liqwifier that
was set to 30 Hz. The remaining dry ingredients in Table 6 were
combined in a bucket and slowly added to the water in the Breddo
Liqwifier. The slurry was mixed for 4 minutes further after the
addition of the dry ingredients. This mixture was then filled into
425 mL metal cans, hermetically sealed, and retorted at 252.degree.
F. for 25 minutes then cooled to ambient temperature (about
70.degree. F.). The viscosity of the cooled product was measured as
described in Example 1 was 3355 centipoise.
Example 7
[0078] 100 lbs. of berry blend coating product was made according
to the formula shown in Table 7 as follows.
TABLE-US-00007 TABLE 7 INGREDIENTS lbs. Modified Starch (cross- 4.0
linked) Dextrose 0.3 Glycine 0.7 Sodium Chloride 0.85 Mixed Berries
Powder 8.0 Color (caramel) 0.15 Water (ambient-70.degree. F.) 20.0
Water (205.degree. F.) 65.8 TOTAL 100.0
[0079] The dry ingredients were measured and combined in a
Cherry-Burrell stainless steel mixing tank. 20 lbs. of water at
ambient temperature (70.degree. F.) was added and mixing continued
for 2 minutes to make a slurry.
[0080] Separately, 65.8 lbs. of tap water was placed in a steam
jacketed stainless steel tank fitted with a Lightening Mixer and
heated to 205.degree. F. The slurry was then added to the heated
water and mixed for 3 minutes to form a viscous but flowable
mixture. This mixture was then filled into 425 mL metal cans,
hermetically sealed, and retorted at 252.degree. F. for 25 minutes
then cooled to ambient (about 70.degree. F.). Viscosity of the
cooled product was measured as described in Example 1. The measured
viscosity was 3210 centipoise.
Example 8
[0081] 100 lbs. of an apple and banana coating product was made
according to the formula shown in Table 8 and by the process that
follows.
TABLE-US-00008 TABLE 8 INGREDIENTS lbs. Modified Starch (cross- 4.0
linked) Dextrose 0.3 Glycine 0.7 Sodium Chloride 0.85 Apple Powder
4.0 Banana Powder 4.0 Color (caramel) 0.15 Water
(ambient-70.degree. F.) 20.0 Water (205.degree. F.) 65.8 TOTAL
100.0
[0082] The dry ingredients were measured and combined in a
Cherry-Burrell stainless steel mixing tank. 20 lbs. of water at
ambient temperature (70.degree. F.) was added and mixing continued
for 2 minutes to make a slurry.
[0083] Separately, 65.8 lbs. of tap water was placed in a steam
jacketed stainless steel tank fitted with a Lightening Mixer and
heated to 205.degree. F. The slurry was then added to the heated
water and mixed for 3 minutes to form a viscous but flowable
mixture. This mixture was then filled into 425 mL metal cans,
hermetically sealed, and retorted at 252.degree. F. for 25 minutes
then cooled to ambient temperature (about 70.degree. F.). The
viscosity of the cooled product was measured as described in
Example 1. The measured viscosity was 3410 centipoise.
Example 9
[0084] 100 lbs. of an oatmeal and apple coating product was made
according to the formula shown in Table 9 and by the process that
follows.
TABLE-US-00009 TABLE 9 INGREDIENTS lbs. Modified Starch
(cross-linked) 4.0 Dextrose 0.3 Glycine 0.7 Sodium Chloride 0.85
Apple Powder 4.0 Oatmeal 4.0 Color (caramel) 0.15 Water
(ambient-70.degree. F.) 20.0 Water (205.degree. F.) 65.8 TOTAL
100.0
[0085] The dry ingredients were measured and combined in a
Cherry-Burrell stainless steel mixing tank. 20 lbs. of water at
ambient temperature (70.degree. F.) was added and mixing continued
for 2 minutes to make a slurry.
[0086] Separately, 65.8 lbs. of tap water was placed in a steam
jacketed stainless steel tank fitted with a Lightening Mixer and
heated to 205.degree. F. The slurry was then added to the heated
water and mixed for 3 minutes to form a viscous but flowable
mixture. This mixture was then filled into 425 mL metal cans,
hermetically sealed, and retorted at 252.degree. F. for 25 minutes
then cooled to ambient temperature (about 70.degree. F.). The
viscosity of the cooled product was measured as described in
Example 1. The measured viscosity was 3440 centipoise.
Example 10
[0087] Palatability of dry dog food kibbles with the above coating
formulations was measured as follows. 45 lbs. of freshly made
standard dry dog food kibbles were added to a stainless steel
tumble mixer. While the mixer was rotating, 5 lbs. of the beef and
carrot coating product of Example 2 was slowly poured onto the dry
kibbles and mixed for about 5 minutes until all kibbles appeared to
be evenly coated as shown in FIG. 1. The coated product was
immediately fed to a 20 dog panel in a standard paired comparison
feeding versus the uncoated dry food kibbles from the same batch.
The test was repeated with the test product being placed in the
bowl opposite to that of the first feeding. Mean values for the two
tests are shown in Table 10.
[0088] The palatability tests were repeated as described above for
the coating composition from Examples 3, 4, 7, 8, and 9. The
results are also shown in Table 10. The results clearly demonstrate
that the coating compositions clearly improve the palatability of
the kibbles relative to the un-coated dry kibbles.
TABLE-US-00010 TABLE 10 Exam- Exam- Exam- Exam- Exam- Exam- ple 2
ple 3 ple 4 ple 7 ple 8 ple 9 % 91 93 90 89 92 92 Consumption dry
dog food kibbles + Test Coating % 9 7 10 11 8 8 Consumption of dry
dog food kibbles only
Example 11
[0089] The effect of the coating on the crunchiness of the kibbles
was measured by the maximum compressive force applied before the
kibble fractures. An uncoated kibble was placed on a flat metal
plate. Using an Instron 5500R texture analyzer fitted with a blunt
T-probe, and with its crosshead travelling at 2 inches per minute,
the maximum compression force (lbf) before the kibble fractured was
determined. This determination was repeated with 19 kibbles. The
mean compressive force for the 20 uncoated kibbles is shown in
Table 11.
[0090] 50 lbs. of coated products with the coating composition from
Example 2 was made as described in Example 10. The coated product
was placed in a covered container. Compression force was measured
for 20 kibbles immediately after coating. The mean compressive
force for Example 2 was then calculated. This was the time 0
reading shown in Table 11. Using new kibbles at each time
intervals, the compressive force determination was repeated 30, 60,
90, 120 and 150 minutes after coating. The results are shown in
Table 11.
[0091] This procedure was repeated with the coating composition
from Example 5 and with a commercial product. Results are also
shown in Table 11. The compressive forces clearly demonstrate that
the test products retain their crunchiness longer than the
commercial product.
TABLE-US-00011 TABLE 11 Dry Commercial Example 2 + Example 5 + Time
(Minutes Kibble Product + Dry Dry Kibbles Dry Kibbles after
Coating) (lbf) Kibbles (lbf) (lbf) (lbf) 0 9.715 8.011 8.545 7.426
30 5.428 6.675 5.599 60 4.479 5.802 5.541 90 3.32 5.801 5.362 120
2.178 5.866 5.38 150 1.72 5.892 5.36
[0092] It should be understood that various changes and
modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described
herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes
and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the present subject matter and without diminishing its
intended advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and
modifications be covered by the appended claims.
* * * * *